"United Prayer" (Acts 4:23-31)

Context

At the beginning of chapter 3, Peter and John, now filled with the Holy Spirit, came across a man (more than forty years old) who had been lame from birth. This man was begging at the temple gate. Peter said to the man, “I have no silver or gold, but what I have I give you; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, stand up and walk” (3:6). Peter then took him by the hand and lifted him up – and this man felt his feet and ankles become strong. He began to walk, and entered the temple … “walking and leaping and praising God” (3:8).

This all attracted a bit of a crowd, whereby Peter was able to speak. Peter identified God as the One who had made this miracle happen. But he also pointed out that it was faith in the resurrected Jesus that had enabled Peter and John to be God’s channel of healing to this man; and by the way … this was the same Jesus that the people had largely, just recently, rejected and caused to be crucified. The gathered people could not deny that God was working, because they saw the healed man right before them. So this Jesus was God’s long-promised Messiah, and the people heard that they should repent and turn to God for forgiveness. Many ‘believed’ in Jesus that day – about five thousand (4:4).

Now you would imagine that someone was going to get upset with talk like this, especially given the response! This was revolutionary stuff. As chapter 4 unfolds, Peter and John were arrested (by the ruling religious authorities). At the inquiry that followed, Peter again stated that the good outcome for the formerly lame man had come about through the name of Jesus – whom they had crucified, and God had vindicated through resurrection. And now this Jesus is the path to salvation.

The ruling authorities were amazed that these ordinary two men could talk with such boldness. And they could not deny the miracle because there had been so many witnesses. The only thing they could try to do was to silence Peter and John! They could not let this news spread, for it would really upset the apple-cart … it must be contained. Peter and John were ordered not to mention the name of Jesus again. But they refused – Peter and John saying that they could not help but talk about all they had seen and heard; basically saying that they would accept any consequences. As they had only done good, Peter and John had to be released; but they were once again threatened!

What to do?

Under these circumstances, what should Peter and John do now? What would they do? What would we do? We could also feel threatened about sharing the Gospel. Despite wanting to, we could feel uncomfortable about standing out for Jesus. We could even feel reticent to help somebody, if this would bring us under some sort of criticism or attack i.e. standing up for a minority against the majority. Under these circumstances what should we do? Under any threat where should we go?

First, Peter and John re-joined their support community. This was translated here as their “friends” (4:23) … the original Greek indicates that Peter and John went to their “own”!? We could see this as their spiritual community (their church), with as many of the original disciples, and the early and recent converts who were resident close-by. This was their ‘close-circle’ or tight-body’. There they shared what had happened to them, the good and the not-so-good.

There then seemed to be an instant and immediate response from this spiritual community – verse 24 – “when they heard it, they raised their voices together to God …”!! Prayer! Together!! Prayer wasn’t a last resort, nor an after-thought; but rather a natural first action! The seriousness of the situation, combined with their sense of dependence on God, drew them spontaneously to prayer. And they were clearly “together” not only physically, but also spiritually … of ‘one heart and one mind’.

What Prayer? What did they pray?

The prayer starts partway through verse 24 and goes through to verse 30. It’s basic thrust is seeking a free-sharing of the Gospel message despite any impediment (especially political ones). There are elements of praise, reflection, intercession and assurance. For prayer is simply a deep conversation with God (including all of the known factors impinging on the situation at hand). This prayer may have been recited by one, with others adding their ‘Amen’. Or, maybe others in the room were repeating back each sentence as it was delivered by a leader. Or, maybe different people were adding their little bit as the prayer went along. Or, there may have been a variety of voices and prayers going on, and the one that is recorded here is just typical of what was prayed that day.

But clearly there were the basic elements of prayer including:

·        the acknowledgement of the greatness of God (v.24b),

·        the understanding that God had spoken in the past about strong opposition, including against Jesus (citing one of David’s famous psalms – #2 within v.25-28),

·        acknowledging the current threat to God’s servants – that could affect safety and well-being … possibly leading to losing heart or giving in to fear (v.29a),

·        requesting God to intervene … encouraging boldness and the performing of ‘signs’ (v.29b), and,

·        embracing the assurance that God would respond outstandingly (v.30).

Surely these five components would also be relevant components of our prayers today!

There were expressions of praise, reflection, intercession and faith!!

There had always been opposition to God’s ways, as we see in David’s psalm quoted here; and now in Peter’s time, this has been particularly focussed on God’s Messiah Jesus. Yet God will always have the last say; and when all the rulers and the people threw every evil imaginable at Jesus, God brought about his resurrection, and also, the redemption of all the world’s willing. So in this prayer, there is this great assurance that God can change anything toward the good. The worst intentions of world leaders and all humanity can be turned around. And God will have the victory!

Sometimes I prefer to watch my football team play … only after the match is already over and I know we have one. In this way, no matter how badly they kick for goal, or no matter what set-backs occur, I can still watch it with joy … because in the end we win. We can live this life in joy, because we know that, in the end, God will win! Fair to say as well, that the majority of this prayer has that necessary and complete focus on God (with expressions of faith and confidence), which also keeps us in the positive!

We should note also, that this prayer does not ask for the threat to be removed. I wonder why not?! Nor is there any desire expressed to avenge anyone – for the disciples had learned well from Jesus’ teaching. The good news from the word of God was for everyone to embrace, even past and current opponents. Also, there was no request for an easier life. This prayer merely asks God to “look at their threats” (v.29a), or, in other words, for God to ‘know that we are living under pressure’. I wonder why? Is there the sense of inevitability … if you serve Jesus, that means opposition. Or, could it be that threats and opposition … actually set the scene for the most faithful expression of mission and ministry in the world!?

How many of us rush to prayer when things are going well for us (even if they are not for the largely unseen)?! History tells us that the church grows best in number and integrity under persecution. We have to prayerfully deal with threat, be undeterred by opposition, and share the gospel with boldness, just like this text says. And being under some level of opposition may prove that we are having some degree of effectiveness … against some of those principalities and powers that are oppressing people. Thus enduring opposition creatively … can actually advance the purposes of God.

Why Prayer?

Why doesn’t God just do what he wants? God could just make it happen! Why does God stand back, or wait for our prayers?? Why do we need to pray at all? It’s not that we have to convince God of anything he doesn’t already know! It’s just the way God has set up the world. God desires our prayers. We have freewill to seek relationship with God, or ignore him. But God desperately seeks relationship with people, and the purpose of prayer is part of that. Prayer offers a mode of communication between us and God. And through this communication, we can grow in trust and faith, and better know and understand God’s ways.

So if building our relationship with God is the first reason for the need for prayer, what is the second??? God could work alone, but chooses to work through people. God gives the Holy Spirit, so that the life and ministry of Jesus can go forward through us. Thus the second reason for prayer is: partnering with God. God wants to bring us on board with his plans, and use us as channels of blessing to others and the world in general. And God wants to know that we are ready to participate in His Kingdom, through our willingness to sit down and dialogue with Him!

But sometimes we still don’t pray!!

God calls us to prayer, so he knows we are committed to the same outcomes as he is. As we come sincerely to prayer, in the midst of the threats that surround us – what will God do – verse 30 – stretch out His hand to heal … and "signs and wonders" are performed through the name of Jesus. Prayer in some mysterious and magnificent way, releases God’s best intentions. Divine help is near! God is waiting for us to put up our hand and commit to partner with him in bringing out his purposes. And, as was the case for Peter and John, it is "signs" of God’s activity … that give us even more opportunity to speak.

So when frustrations build about the state of things, and while we are considering worthy practical responses – we can ... NO, MUST ... utilise prayer to focus ourselves correctly. Whatever injustice is concerning us, we know that God saw the suffering first. If we can engage with God in prayer, and grow in Him, then we can also wisely partner with God in contributing to the solution.

The Outcome

The church community, that Peter and John were part of, prayed, and something big happened (v.31)! When they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together for prayer … “was shaken”! The room ‘shook’ … with the power of God – this tells us that God was present in a mighty way. Psalm 114:7 reads “Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord”. All of those gathered were “filled with the Holy Spirit”. This is NOT to say that they hadn’t been already, but that it was very evident that they had been, and the power of the Holy Spirit was definitely apparent in their praying. And if anyone had missed the Pentecost blessing, they were getting it now.

And the grace-filled truths of the scriptures, were just popping out of their mouths – the good news about Jesus just could not be restrained! In this way, in the face of threats and opposition, the faithful people’s prayers were ANSWERED!! It wasn’t so much that a particular prayer point was resolved, but just the very presence of God was so mightily experienced, that the opposition seemed particularly irrelevant. In this way, we can maintain our joy, despite the difficulties we face. And God was about to provide "signs and wonders" to accompany the sharing of the gospel.

A little later, in Acts 5:12, we read, “Now many signs and wonders were done among the people through the apostles”. While there may be miraculous healings, those "signs and wonders" today are likely to include extraordinary offerings of mercy, forgiveness and compassion across the tide of normal indifference. These are the "signs and wonders" that God will work through the hearts and hands of his people. This will include radical and random acts of generosity, hospitality and kindness … that automatically point beyond the human … toward Creator God.

Together!

The blessing of the Holy Spirit seems to happen most when God’s people are communicating with Him “together”. So let us make the best of the opportunities we have to pray “together”; and find some new occasions as well. When we gather in large and small groupings, let’s find ways of acknowledging that we have both a higher power and a higher purpose! Let’s focus firmly on God and His Will and His Ways, and thus find our way forward … come what may. In that context, let us seek from God what we think we need, and listen well for what God wants to give us in response.

Postscript

I’m learning that prayer “together” fuels better and wiser ways of communicating and acting in response to the world’s needs. But that is for next week.

"Getting a Hand Up" (Matthew 14:22-36)

Introduction

When Peter began to sink, Jesus “caught him” (v.31).

Life is full of moments where we find ourselves out of our depth, and could possibly sink. Peter did … and Jesus “caught him”.

Those moments could include disappointment, grief, loneliness, hurt, confusion, anger, frustration – all potentially leading to “doubt” … where is God in this? Sometimes my mind gets so full of stuff that I’m disturbed about, I feel that I’m going to explode or collapse! But Jesus ‘catches me’.

Narrative Context

This incident follows the feeding of the five thousand. After such a major effort, it is totally understandable that Jesus wanted a break in which to pray. So Jesus sent his disciples off to their next adventure across the lake, while he himself took the opportunity of some quiet prayer up the mountain.

Later, while still sailing across the water in their boat, the disciples got into a bit of trouble … with a strong and adverse wind and big waves. Following his prayer time, Jesus walked on the water toward where the boat was. It was as if the disciples should NOT have been afraid, because Jesus was close by … but they were afraid. As humans, fear means that we don’t see clearly, and our perspective gets skewed. They didn’t even recognise Jesus! Not seeing properly, and given that the approaching figure was walking on water, the disciples were looking for other explanations, and thought this figure might be a ghost.

Jesus then spoke up to reassure his disciples, and encouraged them to stop being afraid. If Jesus can walk on water, and if the God, who Jesus wholly represents, created the whole universe, then one little storm should not divert these disciples too much! “Take heart, it is I” (v.27).

Peter wasn’t yet wholly convinced – “Lord, if it is you …” (v.28a); he was seeking a bit of proof. But at the same time, if it was Jesus, Peter courageously wanted to emulate his master (v.28b). Peter was willing to get out of the boat, and wanted to have a crack at walking on water, like Jesus was doing (and in very rough weather at that). A little brash perhaps, but why not. This is what a follower does! For Peter to say, “command me to come to you” (v.28b), truly acknowledges this leader and follower relationship. We see an open window of opportunity, and we say, ‘Lord, if it is you, I’m in’! We will soon find out if it is the Lord!!

Peter wanted to walk on water … if Jesus was walking on water. If Jesus could defy danger, Peter wanted to defy danger too! Jesus said on at least one occasion to his disciples, “You will do even greater things” (John 14:12). I don’t think Peter thought that he could actually do this in his own ability, especially not in these storm conditions – so this is an example of believing that Jesus could do something in and through him … lift him to a higher level of experience; or as Bill Crowder puts it, “Peter was “abandoning himself to the ability of Christ”.

Jesus, I think, would admire this boldness, and that Peter would take this risk in front of all his friends – they may have laughed if things went badly. Even though Jesus knew how it would turn out, he gave Peter his chance. God is ready to give us a chance to exercise our leader/follower relationship, knowing that we are unlikely to get it completely right the first time! God is very forgiving of our mistakes; but, may I say, not so instantly understanding or forgiving of [any of] our reluctance!

Jesus said to Peter, “Come” (v.29)! ‘Let’s see what happens’! See how far faith can take you. Peter actually walked on water! In that moment, Peter trusted absolutely in Jesus, and acted on that trust. Peter was a follower of Jesus, not just in theory (but in practice)! For faith is about testing all our resources against the unknown, and in the process, discovering our unique potential as God’s person [Frost & Hirsch].

But Peter was still human, and also just learning. Look at verse 30. Peter was put off by the strong wind. The wind didn’t necessarily get any stronger – we actually read that Peter “noticed the strong wind”. Peter had allowed a circumstance around him to distract him and break his focus. It’s as if he looked around to see if there was anything that could go wrong, and then “noticed” that potentially there was! Peter had moved from a positive faith-filled mindset to a negative doubt-ridden mindset … in the blink of an eye. Peter was originally walking toward Jesus (v.29b), presumably looking straight at Jesus. But when he took his eyes off Jesus, he “noticed” the storm conditions – and they (not he … Jesus) became Peter’s primary reference point. Without Jesus in his ‘minds-eye’, Peter was left with only human resources. Whatever ball-game we play, if we take our eyes off the ball, the outcome goes out the window.

We would not blame him, would we?! Think of all the possible distractions and dangers we encounter on a daily basis, and consider whether any of us could remain completely focussed for any length of time. We would not judge Peter! Jesus didn’t! When we step out in authentic faith and find ourselves in a mess of failure, Jesus does NOT judge us – he loves us for trying.

Peter lost his focus, became frightened at the complexity of his situation – then began to sink (v.30b). Notice that this sinking feeling … followed the fear that had replaced the faith Peter had started out with. It wasn’t the wind and the water that led to Peter beginning to sink, but the fear that had crept in. Fear is the enemy of faith. {As we shall see, ‘doubt’ is only a problem if it is NOT handled properly.}

Peter then did all there was left to do! He cried out to Jesus, “Lord, save me” (v.30b)! Jesus ‘saves’ us the first time that we sincerely repent of our wrongdoing and set our mind on living in a Godly way. We are then ‘saved’. But, we also have to put our salvation and faith into action to have it tested, so we can grow. Thus, in the cut and thrust of life, we often need to be ‘saved’ – sometimes just from ourselves, let alone from all the evil that could impact us. So Peter, a bold and faithful disciple, when he reached a low ebb, cried out, “Lord, save me” … and immediately Jesus “reached out his hand and caught him” (v.31) … he “caught” Peter by the hand … and ‘saved’ him! And Jesus would not let Peter go!

Which is better? To do nothing because it seems too hard – or to give it a go, and have a learning experience? It seems to me that to fail a little and then be “caught” by Jesus, is better than missing the adventure altogether. It seems to me that being “caught” by Jesus is rather a personal and intimate and beautiful possibility, that doesn’t happen if you avoid the challenge. We could apply this to all the challenges of life, but the original context most relates to ‘discipleship’ i.e. the way in which we follow Jesus come what may. It is only those who risk failure that can truly know how powerful and loving Jesus is. Jesus will bring us through wiser and stronger, even while we wear a few bruises.

But Jesus also said something to Peter … NB. while he held his hand (v.31b): “You of little faith, why did you doubt”? We could see this as a bit of a ‘rebuke’; but how this statement was delivered would be all important. In frustration and exasperation? Or in love and compassion?? Given his boldness, and the risk Peter took – I think the latter! In any case, any ‘rebuke’ has to be targeted toward the best outcomes (in a person’s life). Later Jesus would have to say to Peter, “Get behind me Satan”, because Peter had totally misunderstood the nature of Jesus’ ministry (and was trying to influence Jesus into a different direction). Even this ‘rebuke’ was targeted toward Peter’s growth and greater understanding.

A Lesson

The lesson here is that it wasn’t so much wrong to doubt, but unnecessary. And it wasn’t so much wrong to doubt, but wrong to let it grow into fear. What do we do with our doubt? Give it to Jesus, and he will take our hand!! Peter had started to let “doubt” get the better of him, so he had to be “caught” … not just have his hand taken. We may have doubts about God’s existence, whether God really loves us, whether we are really saved, whether our prayers are heard, how come we are so sick, will anything get better, whether others can change, whether I can change, or many other possibilities. Let’s not let doubt undo us – let’s put our doubts into the hands of Jesus, but before we begin to sink.

When ‘doubt’ cuts in, before it takes us away from God and out of fellowship with our brothers and sisters, we should quickly say “Lord, save me”. Mother Teresa, now Saint Teresa, was one who reportedly endured ‘doubt’ because of periods of depression, yet in the hands of Jesus, was able to continue her remarkable ministry of compassion. And we should be sure to catalogue in our memory bank the many times that Jesus has held us and “caught” us in the past. The resolution of our doubt can be growthful for us, because we are reassured of God’s presence. And, we know eventually how Peter, in the hands of the Holy Spirit, was so very effective in sharing the good news and living for Jesus.

This incident resolved with a calming of the seas. Everything had been put right. Jesus and Peter now hand in hand – leader and follower. Courage had been shown … and Jesus had been there for Peter. The other disciples, who had witnessed all this from the boat, worshipped, and concluded that Jesus was indeed the Son of God (v.32). This was then followed by many healings, because people were coming to believe in Jesus (v.36). Don’t we see here … Jesus in two capacities at the same time! The powerful Jesus who makes such a dramatic difference on a broad scale, and also the tender Jesus who takes me personally by the hand – “great enough to deserve our obedience, yet humble enough to call us friends” (JB Schuldt in ODB 11/11/16).

I’m really glad to know that when I hit bottom, or feel that I’m heading that way, or even when shadows are cast across what I believe [with all my heart], that Jesus is close by, and will reach out his hand, and, if necessary, ‘catch’ me. In those times when I’m feeling outside my comfort zone, which is where in ministry you need to be prepared to go {and that’s all of us}, that I’m free of the fear of failure, because if it gets too hot, Jesus will take me by the hand, and, if necessary, ‘catch’ me.

Conclusion

Jesus, please hold my hand. Jesus, when I am falling, please catch me. Thank-you Lord Jesus, that when Peter was doubtful, yet bold, you caught him. Thank-you that you are doing the same for me. For, I am carried in the arms of grace and love Divine. Let us dig deeply into the resources of God. Let us abandon ourselves to the ability of Christ Jesus our Lord and friend. I will rise from waters deep, into the saving arms of God. I will sing salvation songs, Jesus Christ has set me free.

"Treasures in Heaven" (Matthew 6:19-21)

What are "treasures in heaven"? Let's consider how to identify them! These three verses (Matthew 6:19-21) distinguish between "treasures on earth" and "treasures in heaven". Clearly "treasures in heaven", if we compare them to the negative assessment of "treasures on earth", are permanent and eternal, rather than being easily corrupted or subject to sudden loss. Unlike hoarded material things, "treasures in heaven" cannot become moth-eaten, subjected to rust, generally wear out, or be stolen. "Treasures on earth" are just temporary and worthless beyond this life. So here, the relative value of "treasures in heaven" and "treasures on earth" are dramatically contrasted.

"Treasures on earth" can literally just go up in smoke. Earthly power, position and fame for it's own sake, lack any true eternal value. Wealth and luxuries gained purely for personal use, ultimately mean nothing. Greedy accumulation is actually harmful to our soul. 1 Timothy 6:9 reads, "But those who want to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction". And such "treasures on earth" cannot even bring the happiness or security one desires out of them, because these can never fill the void within us (the void that only God can fill). Unfortunately, material acquisition and power have become for many people just as strong an addiction as any drug.

Nice things are not necessarily evil. There are nice pieces of furniture, artworks, jewellery, cars, etc, but it is the possibility of the wrong emphasis they are given that is in view here. It is material things, because of their perceived value, that we might try to protect and secure the most, thereby losing focus on the less tangible but more vital areas of life. Often what we can easily see and touch, blocks us from seeing and feeling the deeper things of life. The anxiety we can form around keeping certain things, can be a major distraction or diversion, diminishing our usefulness to God's purposes.

You might recall the incident when a certain rich young ruler asked Jesus how he could gain eternal life. Jesus perceived the person and the situation perfectly and said, "Go sell your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven - then come follow me" (Matt 19:21). It was not necessarily the possessions themselves that were the problem, but rather the importance they were given. This was not only a case of a better, wiser, more eternal use of resources, but also a potential liberation for a guy who had become possessed by the whole idea of possessions. This we know, because, despite the sincere and seeking question put to Jesus, this man just couldn't do it, and walked away sad.
I'm a bit of a collector, so I know about the allure of beautiful things. But I've learnt that no matter how much I value or love my books, when the time for downsizing comes ... they have to be gone! And if no one wants them, then they have no material value left. I have had to change a bit with the times and download books on to a tablet ... reminding me that it is not the cover and pages that have value in themselves, but rather how the book positively blesses my life; and in the case of serious or spiritual reading material, how this changes how I think and feel, and how I respond to God and relate to other people in new ways.

Even a good car, a Ford, cannot last, nor offer any spiritual fulfilment. A new car loses much of its value as soon as you drive it out of the sales-yard. Then people keep scratching it, spilling food on the seats, bringing in their muddy shoes, bashing the doors in car-parks; and then one day, when you're not looking, someone breaks in and steals it.

What are then ... "treasures in heaven"?? How would you describe them?

Treasures in heaven are: investments in people (that will never lose their value):

* acts of kindness and service – e.g. practical help for those who struggle with some particular tasks of life. Acts of kindness lead to the possibility of renewed hope or trust in people.

* gifts of mercy, compassion and forgiveness – e.g. a gift of food to a hungry person, a phone-call or visit to a lonely person, some word of encouragement to the depressed, a prayer of support for the sick, a hug for the grieving, or forgiving someone against the tide (even when they are unaware or not even sorry for the offence).

* sharing testimonies of faith (where faith has been proven effective) – for instance with the struggling or lost (for their encouragement)

* introducing someone to Jesus - so that they might have peace with God

* effort toward the undoing of injustice, oppression, poverty, violence, etc – to stand and act in solidarity with those suffering under oppression or injustice is very powerful

* neighbour care – i.e. being known as helpful, available, friendly, safe, welcoming and caring ... in your street (e.g. lending things). If we can become a good listener (including to stuff we might find foreign or difficult), others may be prepared eventually to listen to what we believe.

* growing our families – i.e. teaching, offering boundaries, loving, developing better communication, listening to one another's needs, being available

* activities toward community-building – contributing to people coming together for various causes with greater harmony, mutual caring and learning capacity e.g. community action groups

* building relationships in the church – spending time together in worship, encouragement, prayer, and study of the Word ... in the large group and in small groups, being interested in the daily challenges each one faces, and the stories of how God has been involved. The church is the 'body of Christ' - all of us being interdependent parts of the same entity. We need each other, because the necessary gifts are spread around (for the common good). We can be a 'tight body' or a 'loose body'!

In the film 'Mr. Holland's Opus', all the musician Mr. Holland wanted to do was write his great symphony. However, for financial reasons, he had to start doing something he dreaded - being a music teacher. Mr. Holland (played by Richard Dreyfuss) started out with little time for the students, because he just wanted the money to live on while he wrote his great symphony. However, there was some real intrinsic goodness in Mr. Holland, as we see the needs and talents of his young students work their way into his heart. Having become open to these young people, and bringing significant encouragement and contributions into their lives (such that they were growing enormously), Mr. Holland became aware that his primary gifting and calling was not necessarily as a composer, but as a teacher. Mr. Holland's great symphony or 'opus' was not a composition, but rather his investments in the lives of his students. Mr. Holland had found his "treasures in heaven".

George Muller wrote: "When we go to heaven, we go to the place where our treasures are, and we shall find them there". When the film credits come up for a person's life ... how many credit lists will we appear on??

What we treasure most shows where our heart is - this exposes where we are in our spiritual walk with God. The fruit reveals the health of the tree. Once we have signed up with Jesus, our true citizenship is in heaven, so that is where our investments should be made. Any investments on earth will remain on earth as clutter for others to deal with. Investments in heaven travel with us. Whatever we pursue most, what we give highest priority to, where we put our greatest energies - this inevitably shows what we care about most, and where are heart really is.

Athol Gill wrote: "Each person sets their heart on what they count as ultimately important - and this allegiance determines the direction of their life". Our own spiritual blessings derive from the investments we make into the lives of others.

Jesus lived out this notion of "treasures in heaven", and gave us "treasure" beyond compare. Through God's Holy Spirit we can be bearers of these "treasures in heaven" as investments in other people's eternal experience of God.

One of the greatest Christian leaders of the last century was John R. W. Stott, rector of All Souls Langham Place in London and a peerless preacher, Bible teacher, evangelist, author, global leader and friend to many. I knew him over many decades, but I will never forget my last visit to his bedside three weeks before he died. After an unforgettable hour and more of sharing many memories over many years, I asked him how he would like me to pray for him. Lying weakly on his back and barely able to speak, he answered in a hoarse whisper, "Pray that I will be faithful to Jesus until my last breath." Would that such a prayer be the passion of our generation too. (Os Guinness, “Impossible People”, IVP Books, 2016).

"Bold Leadership" (2 Timothy 4:1-8)

Prelude

How would you describe a leader?

What attributes does a good leader have?
Who are leaders?

Paul was clearly a leader in the 1^st Century Jesus-following movement. Towards the end of his life, he was keen to see other leaders step up. Reading this text from 2^nd Timothy, we are being invited into this call to leadership. And, especially in verses 2 and 5, we read descriptions of what leaders need to engage with. I will contend here that we are all called to be spiritual leaders within the community in which we live.

Introduction

We began this month … considering the idea … that the love we have received creates a debt of love to others. Because God has imparted so much love in our direction, typified in what Jesus did for us – then our only response could be a love for neighbour … that factors in all their needs, especially their spiritual need. Then John talked about difficult truths concerning eternal destiny that should motivate us further concerning the spiritual needs of others. Rhett talked about the priority we should give to 'spiritual fitness', not only for our own benefit, but also, and most importantly, for the well-being of all those we encounter (and thus have the opportunity of sharing life and faith with). Last week Sylvia Fraser spoke about the hope that is so missing from so many people's lives – yet this is the very hope we have, the blessed hope of Jesus – that we should be able to share. Sylvia challenged us … that we will never really be able to share hope, until we rid ourselves of 'worldly passions' and become more pure channels.

We have been reminded of what it takes to make a difference in the world with the gospel of Jesus. It takes a full appreciation and sincere gratitude for the love of God available to all people. It takes an appreciation that the decisions made in this world have eternal consequences. It takes a commitment to prepare ourselves as best as possible, to truly become growing disciples of Jesus. It takes a whole lot of repentance from all those things of heart, mind and action, that are contrary to God’s ways. It takes a love of neighbour that looks beyond all sorts of offences, to the spiritual need that lies deep within everyone. It takes surety, courage and boldness; but also a confidence that God’s Holy Spirit is preparing the way. It takes the sort of humility and gentleness that allows us to connect genuinely with other people.

Can we engage with our neighbourhoods and community with bold leadership ... such that people around us will know that Jesus is alive and seeking them out? Can they see our hope and our peace?? Have you considered yourself to be a 'spiritual leader' in your street? What would it take to see yourself as this?? Our community, and society in general, needs spiritual leadership! We shouldn’t look to others, we certainly can’t look to politicians or any secular leader – it’s not their responsibility; we should look in the mirror. We worship and follow the greatest leader of all – Jesus – who in turn calls us to serve and to lead in human community today!

The great apostle Paul was keen that there would be other leaders (after he departed) who would follow in the way of sharing Jesus with integrity and effectiveness. A young man named Timothy was of particular interest to Paul. Timothy would have to be bold if he was to make a difference in the difficult circumstances the early church was in. So Paul put up the challenge to Timothy – “Timothy is to carry on Paul’s ministry in a world in which there is no promise of eager response” (Gordon Fee). And as this is the living word of God, the challenge is also there for us today. This passage serves to motivate us (concerning our impact), in whatever circumstances we encounter, and in whatever places we find ourselves.

Leadership

There is something here for everyone, as we all have a leadership role … whenever we are in any form of social interaction – family, work, school, community, church, etc. This is because we follow a man (called Jesus) who had impact wherever he went and whoever he spoke with or spent time with. This is a spiritual leadership enabled by the fruits of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity [goodness], faithfulness, gentleness, self-control); and empowered by the gifts of the Holy Spirit shared amongst us. As we are called to be witnesses to Jesus, we are necessarily spiritual leaders wherever we go.

This does NOT mean we are in charge. This does NOT mean we inflict our agenda on the unwilling. This does NOT mean we apply pressure. This IS a serving leadership, where our focus comes off ourselves, and goes firmly onto the well-being of others, and the well-being of a community as a whole. This is the sort of leadership where people recognise Jesus through true concern and compassion. This is the leadership where any words we might subsequently say, make sense on the basis of the life people have seen presented before them. This is the leadership where the results are actually the responsibility of the Holy Spirit – which  removes the possibility of both pride and anxiety. Yet, this is still the leadership that is prepared to move beyond comfort … into places of need, come what may. Where lives are dying, time is short.

Text – verses 1 to 4

In his time and context, how did Paul describe the nature of this spiritual leadership? As we live in the sight of God, and also minister in the company of Jesus (who is the ultimate judge of every one of us), in the knowledge of both his current and future kingdoms, this is what we should do: persistently proclaim the good news, in both good and bad seasons, always be on duty – being ‘on hand’ standing by, always being ready whether it suits us or not, whether it works to our advantage or not – and often it will not be to our personal advantage. The “patient teaching”, “encouraging” and “convincing” doesn’t sound too bad, and can be addressed in a gentle life-style evangelism type way. We are simply people who know the truth and live the truth, and progressively the truth becomes convincing. However, Paul includes another word, which is not so comfortable – do you see it there in verse 2 – “rebuke”.

In its mildest form, “rebuke” means to ‘correct’, or ‘set straight’. This effect can naturally come as part of the teaching and encouraging, but sometimes there are more specific behaviours that have to be addressed: where someone is going down a particularly destructive path, or having a bad affect or influence on someone else, spreading negativity, being violent or generally hurting others. So within the word “rebuke” is also the notion of ‘admonishing’ or ‘intervening’. Parents know all about this. This is speaking with great seriousness into tense situations. This is stating that certain attitudes or behaviour is wrong, and in some cases intervening to stop such behaviour. To “rebuke” is to ‘warn’ … in order to prevent an action or bring one to an end.

Yet even here, we need a serving mentality! To just say something is wrong, where there is no moral or ethical groundwork to consider it so, is likely to be unhelpful. ‘That’s just plain wrong’ … I’ve said it myself often; but that is because I have already formed (largely from the Gospel) the sort of moral and ethical code which determines something as being wrong. Other people, maybe increasingly, in this individualistic culture, are not there yet – like those referred to in verses 3-4, who have basically decided to just live for themselves.

The leadership skill here, is to provide “rebuke” in such a way that it connects with the hurt that is being caused to themselves and others, rather than the abstract offence it may be causing us (as if we were a Pharisee). This then can be seen as a positive input into their lives (and those being affected around them), rather than a bland negative criticism. This “rebuke” would also separate the behaviour from the person themselves. So, a proper “rebuke” would be, for instance … ‘do you see how you are hurting that other person’, rather than simply ‘you are a bad man’.

All “rebuke” should be aimed toward positive change, and ultimately to the open receipt of the gospel. What might it have been like … wearing another person’s shoes as they grew up?! This is a way of keeping open to God’s ‘unconditional’ love to all, especially when we feel uninclined towards certain individuals. This is how we stay open to the possibility of radical repentance.

All “rebuke”, if it is to be regarded as spiritual leadership, must be aimed at reconciliation between estranged parties, including between lost souls and their Creator God and Loving Father. As Kent Hodge (no relation) puts it, “There are always errors to correct in all of our lives, but these errors are to be corrected with and through a reconciling spirit”. Or as the prophet Isaiah put it, “You shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to live in” (58:12b).

Offering “rebuke” can be very difficult and challenging. This is why we need to be careful listeners to God’s small voice. Offering “rebuke” is NOT likely to win many friends. We all like to be popular, but sometimes there are higher priorities to consider for the sake of others. Friendships can be strained when the high priority of spiritual growth (or community justice) necessarily needs to be addressed. But this remains the call of the Gospel.

Text – verses 5-8

Rhett reminded us, two weeks ago, that we should make sure we are prepared in advance for any situation or opportunity to help someone out ... this is our ‘spiritual fitness’ campaign. Philip H Towner writes: "It is 'available' Christians who will be able to seize the moment and win people for Christ or come to the aid of struggling brothers and sisters in the church". Being ‘available’ is likely more important than being ‘able’! This sort of ‘availability is described in verse 5.

(a)  Our constant availability (in season and out) wherever we are and whoever we are with, is assisted through being “sober” – meaning a whole lot of things ... being able to 'keep your head' (in all situations); being ‘cool’ under pressure (without acting rashly); being watchful, alert and discerning; having a 'presence of mind'; being well-balanced – using careful judgment and wisdom; being self-controlled (or better God-controlled) – spiritually attuned. This is being able to see in behind events … to where God has been active.

(b)  We also need to be settled in any personal suffering – exhibiting peace and hope despite difficult circumstances. In this we can be a great witness, and offer good leadership to the struggling. We should expect some degree of suffering, and be prepared to creatively deal with it – being positively expectant of God's provision.

(c)   Doing the “work of an evangelist” is broader than being an evangelist (which is more a specific gifting). This is being a witness, a follower of Jesus, and a spiritual leader, with a definite view toward people coming to know Jesus (as their Saviour and Lord). It is so easy to just hope for the best concerning others, but it is much more intentional to imagine … what a blessing it would be … if they came to know and follow Jesus. We can each ‘work like an evangelist’ according to our own personality and gifting – all with a team approach.

(d)  The last phrase is the one that most captured my attention – “carry out your ministry fully”. What does this mean?? Not leaving anything to chance, giving full attention to our calling; being wary of distractions (that unnecessarily bring dry spots or periods of unfruitfulness), creatively dealing with disappointments so they don’t lead to discouragement.

This is in a time and culture, where, generally speaking, there is a preference for what suits me - this being where the quest for the common good has been lost. This was already a perceived reality in the first century (v.3-4). Where the boundaries have been blurred, it's easy to drift. It's also easy to defer to what is right before your eyes, rather than looking beyond to the things of the Spirit, to the things that we don't easily see yet remain the most important. The highly visible clamours for our attention, while the less visible is missed. An alternative mindset is, “It’s not worth a thing, if it’s not for the King”.

Paul, nearing the end of his time, provides himself as an example of “fully carrying out a ministry” (v.6-7). A "libation" refers to pouring out wine or other liquid on an altar as a sacrificial offering, meaning that Paul had poured out his life … he has given everything to his ministry, right to the end, and ultimately at considerable cost. Paul has remained true both in the soundness (truth and quality) of his ministry as well as the length of his ministry; right to the end - he kept on serving through all the circumstances that befell him. Paul had completed ALL that he was given to do.

Paul didn't say this in pride, but to inspire Timothy with what is required. And not just Timothy … “but also to all who have longed for his [Christ's] appearing” (v.8). Paul hoped that bold leadership would inspire bold leadership. The "crown of righteousness" here refers to an endorsement that righteousness has been sought, developed and practiced in the life of Paul (refer TNTC p.188) – not a reward, but an endorsement of a reality already brought about through the grace of God. Paul had been loyal to a trust placed in him. Paul had also remained true to the Gospel.

We are to live as if we know that the things of this world are temporary, all its pleasures are passing, and it is the eternal things that count for the most. Paul says his commitment was thoroughly worth it! The "crown" is for those who have longed for Christ's "appearing", such that they have been available for spiritual leadership. This doesn't mean they wanted to escape, but rather that they lived an inspired life in anticipation of Jesus' return (NTCS p.208).

Conclusion

The reason for the seriousness of all this is given in verse 1. God and Jesus are present with us. We can't live in a careless way, because the way we use our lives is being observed by the highest court. Embracing the Kingdom of God and making disciples until Jesus returns … is our most pressing job description. Bold spiritual leadership understands that we can be highly effective instruments of God's redeeming power.

People around us are always seeking. Our prayer and our desire is that they will seek in the right places. There are many other places people can go, and other alignments people can make – those temporary feel good activities. Our calling to spiritual leadership is to make Jesus the first and most significant port of call. Bold leadership doesn’t blame people for making the wrong choices, but rather becomes available to realign and reconcile people toward God’s invitation to a relationship with the Divine.

There are questions that beg to be answered. There are dilemmas to be overcome. There are gaps to be filled, and the challenge is for you to fill them. That is the essence of the high call of spiritual leadership. There is a purpose for your being here. You are meant to answer something, solve something, provide something, lead something, discover something, compose something, write something, say something, translate something, interpret something, sing something, create something, teach something, preach something, bear something, overcome something, and in doing so, you improve the lives of others under the power of God, for the glory of God.  (From: Claude Alexander, Bishop of The Park Church in Charlotte, North Carolina USA.)

This is something for us to consider every day – it’s Jesus that we live for every day. We follow Jesus by emulating his love for neighbour.

"The Debt of Love" (Romans 13:8-10; 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4)

Introduction

What is a debt? To be in debt is to owe something to somebody. Usually this is money, but could also be an obligation for some form of service. Most of us want to relieve ourselves of debt. Debt can be debilitating and burdensome; we don’t feel totally free if we are still under some sort of obligation.

There are also spiritual debts – where we pray to God “forgive us our debts”. These are ‘debts’ caused by the wrong behaviour … which have offended God (and potentially hurt others). In this case, debt is removed through our repentance (i.e. our sincere regret and commitment to change), and then God’s forgiveness (possible because of the sacrifice of Jesus).

In the case of monetary debt, this is removed when the money is paid back to whoever it is due to. In the case of an obligation or responsibility, our debt is paid out when the promised service has been given. We should always have the attitude and intention of paying out our debts.

However, there is one debt that we can NEVER fully pay off. That is ??? the debt of love!! We have a debt of love to all people that can NEVER be fully paid out. Each day we wake up (that’s the definition of a good day!), we have the same obligation to love others. This is our ‘debt’ of love to the One who continues to love us day in and day out.

Paul says (in Romans 13:8), “Owe no one anything, except to love one another”. When we accept that God’s law (i.e. God’s will and God’s ways) is what we want to live by, then we cannot escape this ‘debt’ of love. The NIV puts it: “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another”. This is a ‘debt’ that can never be discharged in full! We will NEVER be able to say that we have loved enough!

We gratefully receive God’s grace and the forgiveness of our ‘sin-debts’. However, there is also a sense in which the unconditional love we have received, obliges us to love in the same way. R L Thomas, writes of Paul, “Paul’s post-conversion service was invested as a partial repayment for the personal debt he incurred when God gave him salvation” (New Expositors Commentary). Paul seems also to broaden this ‘debt’ to include … as extensions of love … sharing the gospel (1:14-15), and living according to the Spirit (8:12-13).

How does this ‘debt of love’ play out for us these days??

Well it’s pretty easy to love the lovely, but then there are challenges outside of this. For example,

(i) the person who has hurt us;

(ii) the person we find difficult - the one who tends to over-power us and make us feel small;

(iii) the person we have disagreements with - this disagreement might just be quiet, rather than public, disagreement, but it still disrupts loving this other person as we should.

When diversity of opinion arises in any organisation, particularly within a group of people like a local church, love is necessary, and should still be primary. We have to weave our way through diversity toward a very apparent and effective love.

There could be diversity in a number of areas:

·        how we like things organised,

·        how we fund things (i.e. how we handle money),

·        our preferred worship style,

·        who the leaders should be,

·        what the biggest priorities are,

·        preaching themes;

then more personal stuff like:

·        footy teams,

·        political beliefs,

·        theological beliefs (because there can be a big diversity here beyond the major points of agreement – there are things you hold to be important, that don’t rate on my scale and vice versa),

·        life experiences,

·        personality differences (i.e. introverts and extroverts),

·        particular talents and vocations,

·        financial situation.

All this can, and should, be freely put on the table – THERE SHOULD BE THE SPACE AND OPPORTUNITY AND TRUST FOR THIS, but sometimes there is going to be polar opposites on show.

When this happens, the priority cannot be winning or losing, but rather how God’s “agape” love maintains relationships (and even builds stronger relationships). There can be a bit of a holding back, when a particular tension appears; but the ‘Jesus way’ is to work through and past that, and find a way to love.

As God’s people we do not have to agree with one another on every issue, but how we deal with difference, how we treat one another in the midst of conflict and debate, and how we speak about one another in the public forum, has a great impact on how the world perceives us. After all, the heart of the Gospel is peace, grace, love and inclusion. [With thanks to Daniel Bullock for his writing on this matter, here and below.]

This often requires a major mindset change. Like we said last week when talking about peace-making, we need to get past a very limited and individual way of seeing things, towards God’s vision of ‘flourishing community’ – a vision of life together … the way God describes it (e.g. 1 Corinthians chapter 12).

The Report Card

In Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonian church, he prayed that the people there would love one another (3:12). It’s not that they didn’t love each other to some extent, because Paul had already commended their love (1:2-3, 3:6). But here in chapter 3, Paul said, “… may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all’. Paul wanted them to step it up some more!

Now in Paul’s next letter to the Thessalonians, at some later stage down the track, we read,

We must always give thanks to God for you, brothers and sisters, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing.

Now that’s a good report card! That’s a whole lot of love!! This indicates that everyone was loving everyone else; love was being exercised by the entire community mutually. This seems to suggest very little exception! And it certainly states that this love is an increasing reality. PRAYER ANSWERED!

We should be champions of the cause of love! We may have to first repent of our lack of love … to a particular person, or just in general. We may have to follow through on those acts of love we planned, but never quite got around to. We may have to take courage, and challenge any behaviour and language around us … that is unloving, hurtful and harmful, and works against the championing of love.

To actually champion love, we could take the time to share the stories of the actual generosity, kindness and hospitality we have seen and experienced amongst us. Do we have any of these stories?? I’m sure we have plenty!!

Why would this ‘love-debt’ be so important??

(a)  People will know the Jesus-followers by their love. Our relevancy, and the Church’s level of relevancy, has a lot to do with the way we treat each other (and how this impacts the community’s perception of us). To live and act without love is destructive to the witness of the Gospel. John 13:34-35 reads: “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” ‘Love’ is the key identity marker of the church – if the church is to point effectively and accurately toward God.

I don’t exactly know how this plays out in a context which is apathetic at best and oppositional at worst. But I do know that this is what the Bible says. So even today, in our secular, chaotic, and often selfish world, love will speak volumes. It is unlikely, however, that people would be inclined towards Jesus, if the people who hold allegiance to Jesus don’t love one another. And that love is often proved in the most practical ways.

(b) Learning to love each other is the training ground for loving those outside of us (the church) … those who we don’t already have a relationship with. David Coffey comments, “In every generation a callous world desperately needs love”. Paul had already made some statements in Romans 12 that are quite challenging, showing that we need to get into the right sort of training (if we are to going to be ready and able to pull these challenges off):

·        Extend hospitality to strangers (12:13)

·        Bless those who persecute you (12:14)

·        Associate with the lowly (12:16)

·        If your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink  (12:20).

Conclusion

We can see from this that love is not just a feeling, but rather a ‘concrete good’. Love is practical and outgoing and transforming. Love can be visible in the most ordinary of situations – the smile of welcome, the hand of friendship, the hug of comfort, the listening ear, the tear of empathy, the phone call of encouragement, the lend of a wheelbarrow, the cup of cold water, the prayer of the heart (L Richards).

We read again and again and again … the most dominant of biblical themes (e.g. Romans 13:9b-10) – “love your neighbour”. We know that love never harms, hurts or manipulates; but we could also say … that genuine love never withdraws due consideration or help either. If we can champion love, both in word and deed, then we will see the Kingdom of God come across our community and beyond – because we as genuine Jesus-followers (in the way we live), point directly to reconciling love of Jesus Christ!